Guest wowpow Posted March 20, 2007 Share Posted March 20, 2007 Bangkok Post "Chasing shadows A telescope at the Ekamai planetarium in Bangkok captured this picture of yesterday morning's partial solar eclipse, showing the Moon casting a shadow on the Sun". "ASTRONOMY / PARTIAL SOLAR ECLIPSE Rain, cloud spoil the viewing Morning rain and cloud denied most city residents a view of the partial solar eclipse yesterday, but people in the North fared better despite the haze. A few lucky individuals in Bangkok, mostly students at the astronomy olympics camp on Sanam Chai road opposite the Grand Palace, caught a five second glimpse before heavy cloud moved in. However, people in some northern provinces like Chiang Mai, which has ironically been shrouded in a thick haze, had a clearer sight of the eclipse lasting for several minutes, Thai Astronomical Society chairman Aree Sawasdee said. At 7.48 am, the moon began to pass between the Earth and the Sun, casting a shadow on its face. But instead of a gradual fading of sunlight, Mr Aree said, the Sun and the sky darkened. "This was because the rain was coming," he said. Bad weather disappointed many students in Bangkok who made a special effort to get up early only to be denied all but the briefest glimpse, if they were lucky. "At least we know how to use telescopes and other equipment. Above all, I've learned how to cope with disappointment," said Raweewat Tawantalerngrit, a senior-high student who joined the astronomy olympics camp. The rain forced about 60 other students to stay inside a coach. From the vehicle, they were able to see the eclipse for just a few seconds when the clouds parted. Students gathered at Ekamai planetarium were luckier. "I was so excited seeing the Sun being swallowed. It was beautiful," said Chanapat Tetsana. He and his friends agreed it was worth getting up early and braving the morning downpour. Solar eclipses have astrological significance, according to astrologers who believe they can predict the fate of government leaders. Trin Ditlampu, lecturer of Rajamangala University of Technology Phra Nakhon led 120 students to Government House to petition Prime Minister Surayud Chulanont to allocate funds to build a pavilion in honour of King Taksin the Great to lead the country out of its political difficulties, which he said have been caused by the effects of the solar eclipse. He said Gen Surayud ignored his two previous requests, and that would put the country at risk of bloody conflict." Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest buaseng Posted March 20, 2007 Share Posted March 20, 2007 Oh damn! I knew there was something I really missed about Thailand Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
